What makes the two-liter S14 engine unique?
The two-liter S14 engine in the E30 320is is essentially identical to the 2,302cc version found in the E30 M3 except for its shorter stroke (72.6mm versus 84mm) that yields an overall displacement of 1,990cc. Like all S14 engines, it combines the basic four-cylinder block from the M10 family with a four-valve head derived from the one used on the six-cylinder M88 and S38 motors. Special features of this engine include individual throttle plates for each cylinder, machined intake and exhaust ports, and a crankshaft with eight counterweights. Like the M88 and S38, the S14 does not have hydraulic lifters, and thus requires periodic valve adjustments. The two-liter S14 is rated at 192 hp (DIN) at 6,900 rpm and 155 lb/ft of torque at 4,900 rpm. This is down slightly compared to the non-catalyst, 2.3-liter S14 used in the E30 M3 which is rated at 200 hp (DIN) at 6,750 and 176 lb/ft of torque at 4,750 rpm. The S14 engine fitted to the 320is has an identical appearance to the unit found in the